Cycleways and Walkways

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​​​​​Walking and biking network

Hamilton’s walking and biking routes have been developed over many years, resulting in the growing interconnected network we have today. Recently the development programme has been accelerated in response to public support for more recreation and alternative transport options. As a result Hamilton’s extensive network of walking and biking routes across parks, through gullies, alongside the Waikato River and on roads is used daily by commuters, families and people just interested in seeing where a path will take them.

The walking and biking map shows all of the routes currently available in Hamilton. The map key shows where routes can be found on both parks and roads, and that while some routes are for shared use (walking and cycling) others are for walking or cycling alone.

Hamilton Bike Map

This two-sided map shows the bike lanes and paths across the city, along with off-road areas to explore.

​Hamilton Lake (Domain) Walkway

For a diverse walking route right in the city centre head over to Hamilton Lake Domain. The walk around the edge of Hamilton Lake (Rotoroa) covers 3.8 kilometres and winds through natural lakeside vegetation, past playgrounds and grassed parkland as well as the Verandah Cafe which is the perfect place to relax with a coffee after some exercise. Note that cycling is not permitted on the boardwalk section of the Lake walkway.

Walking and cycling on Hamilton’s park routes

Taking care on Hamilton's park routes

Hamilton's gullies and parkland provide great opportunities to escape busy city life. The riverside routes are for both walkers and cyclists and cycling is also allowed on designated routes across some parks. Cyclists and walkers are urged to share the routes with care by having consideration for each other. Walkers are urged to keep to one side of the routes, especially on corners so cyclists can pass safely. Cyclists are reminded that all park routes intended for cycling are for recreational cycling only, and are urged to give ample friendly warning when approaching walkers from behind. Racing, mountain biking and any cycling involving speed on these routes is not permitted.

Personal safety

Always walk or cycle with others. Hamilton's wonderful river and gully routes are best shared with friends. Organise a group of friends to go walking or cycling and check out the sights together.

Some of the walking and cycling routes share or cross roadways. Be careful when approaching or using these roadways - look out for vehicles and be prepared to give way at any time.

Cyclists are advised to always wear a helmet.

Share with Care signs

Share with Care signs have been put in place on the Waikato River routes. These signs identify convenient circuits using the traffic bridges and give information on entry and exit points, route distances, facilities and points of interest along the routes. Cyclists are advised that there are short sections of the riverbank routes where dismounting and proceeding on foot is recommended. These sections can be seen on the map and are:

The steep hill near the Pukete Pa site

Beneath the Claudelands Bridge on the city side

The steep section on Jesmond Park between Opoia and Claudelands Roads

Beneath the Cobham Drive Bridge on the Hamilton East/Hamilton Gardens side of the river.

International Charter for Walking

Hamilton City Council at its December 2006 meeting signed up to the International Charter for Walking:

The Council recognises the benefits of walking as a key indicator of healthy, efficient, socially inclusive and sustainable communities and acknowledges the universal rights of people to be able to walk safely and to enjoy high quality public spaces anywhere and at anytime. We are committed to reducing the physical, social and institutional barriers that limit walking activity. We will work with others to help create a culture where people choose to walk through our commitment to this charter and its strategic principles: